Office of Tangible Space has crafted a distinctive pole dance studio, Goodside Studios, situated in New York City's vibrant Lower East Side. This innovative space, envisioned by designer Tze Chun in collaboration with the studio's founder, seamlessly merges functionality with a bold aesthetic. It aims to cultivate an empowering environment for dancers, emphasizing personal exploration and artistic expression over external perceptions. The design incorporates rich burgundy velvet, bespoke shoe storage for dance heels, and specialized lighting setups tailored for high-quality video capture, reflecting a modern approach to the traditional pole dance setting.
The creative vision behind Goodside Studios drew inspiration from the iconic musician Grace Jones, resulting in a decor scheme that blends deep browns and vibrant reds across its two levels. This fusion creates an atmosphere described as both welcoming and avant-garde, challenging conventional notions of a dance studio. The entrance leads into a chic lobby featuring a lounge, check-in area, and a retail space offering specialized books, accessories, and refreshments. This communal zone encourages dancers to relax and socialize before and after their sessions.
Central to the ground floor's design are dramatic 12-foot-high red curtain portals, meticulously positioned to provide an eye-catching visual while safeguarding dancers' privacy from the street. These portals serve as the main entry point to Studio High, the primary dance area. Here, 16-foot-tall stainless steel poles, custom-fabricated to fit the soaring ceilings, stand as the tallest of their kind in New York City. The studio's flooring, a carefully chosen mix of walnut and oak arranged in a grid pattern, was engineered to offer both visual appeal and the necessary texture for dancers' movements.
The lighting system within Studio High was specifically developed to enhance video recordings, acknowledging the community's preference for self-documentation. Project manager Katelyn Nemnich highlighted the importance of this feature, stating that the lighting design was crucial for achieving a 'cinematic backdrop' for dancers' videos. This attention to detail underscores the studio's commitment to supporting its members' diverse needs and artistic pursuits.
Below the main studio lies Studio Low, a more intimate and subdued space in the basement. This area, characterized by its cream-colored curtains and lower ceilings, provides a contrasting atmosphere for different types of classes or private sessions. The basement also houses the changing rooms and restrooms, continuing the burgundy color palette found upstairs. The changing areas, cleverly concealed by curtains, are adorned with mirrors from Ready to Hang, adding a touch of elegance and practicality.
Further enhancing the studio's thoughtful design is the 'Heelsway,' a unique hallway located between the changing rooms and restrooms. Here, dancers can store their heels on a metallic rack, each pair proudly displayed beneath individual nameplates. Tze Chun described this personal touch as akin to 'having a toothbrush at a partner's home,' emphasizing the sense of belonging and community fostered within Goodside Studios. This holistic approach to design ensures that every element, from the grand architectural features to the subtle personal touches, contributes to a truly exceptional pole dance experience.